Homework and Flipped Learning

Homework is student work that teachers assign and expect students to complete outside of the instructional period. Assignments can range from learning new material, practicing new skills, or enhancing or reviewing classroom lesson material. Often, teachers assign homework on the assumption that it teaches students responsibility for their own learning. Debate over the value, purpose, and equity of homework is ongoing among educators and communities.

Flipped learning or instruction is a method of instruction whereby students interact with introductory material at home prior to coming to class, often in the form of an instructional video that replaces basic direct instruction. Classroom time is then repurposed for tasks, assignments, higher-order thinking activities, and one-on-one time with students to clear up misconceptions and answer questions.

Related Topics and Terms

Book Chapter: The Cult(ure) of Homework

In this popular chapter from the second edition of the book Rethinking Homework, author Cathy Vatterott explores the history of homework, popular attitudes about it, and examines five popular beliefs about children and learning that are the basis of the culture of homework.

Articles

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Giving Students Meaningful Work

When parents and educators talk about student work, two seemingly conflicting ideas enter the conversation. The first is that kids need more rigorous and meaningful work. The other is that kids need less work for the sake of work, and more time for authentic learning. Explore articles about homework and more in this September 2010 issue of Educational Leadership magazine.

Quick Reference Guides

Flipping the Learning

Flipped learning pioneer Jon Bergmann offers a compelling overview of how to flip your classroom and use technology to support best practices in student learning. The guide also features ways to overcome common hurdles and mistakes, tips for effective flipped videos, and sample flipped lessons.